FPV Drone Pilot/Instructor

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, brief, and execute FPV UAS missions on Group 1–2 platforms in accordance with SOPs, airspace rules, and customer objectives.
• Conduct pre-/post-flight inspections, mission planning, risk assessments, and debriefs; maintain accurate flight and maintenance logs.
• Configure payloads and mission profiles; integrate sensors (e.g., EO/IR, RGB, multispectral) and verify data quality.
• Troubleshoot in the field (communications links, GNSS, firmware, GCS, power systems) and perform minor maintenance and repairs.
• Operate safely in varied terrain and weather; establish launch/recovery sites and manage battery/energy logistics.
• Cookordinate with cross-functional teams (ops, safety, engineering, and customers) to meet mission timelines and deliverables.
• Adhere to regulatory and site requirements (airspace authorizations, NOTAMs/TFRs, LAANC/waivers, range/site rules).
• Contribute to SOP improvements, safety reporting, and after-action reviews.
• Train and mentor U.S. military units, U.S. government agencies, and partner forces on Group 1–2 UAS operations, safety, and maintenance; develop lesson plans, conduct classroom/field instruction, evaluate proficiency, and document training outcomes.

Required Qualifications

• 1–3 years hands-on experience operating Group 1–2 UAS platforms, including FPV and autonomous flight modes.
• Demonstrated proficiency with GCS software and mission planning tools (e.g., ArduPilot/ArduCopter, PX4, QGroundControl, Mission Planner, or similar).
• Strong FPV stick skills: precise low-altitude flight, confined-area navigation, and manual recovery techniques.
• Experience delivering training to professional or government audiences; ability to tailor instruction for diverse skill levels and mission sets.
• Experience with payload integration and data collection workflows.
• Ability to travel frequently and remain on assignment for 3–6 months; valid passport or ability to obtain one if required.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs; comfortable working outdoors in varied conditions.
• Excellent situational awareness, communication, and teamwork skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or ability to obtain within 60 days).
• Prior experience training U.S. military, federal agencies, or partner forces on UAS operations, safety, and maintenance; instructor certifications a plus.
• Experience with BVLOS concepts, waivers, or shielded operations.
• Familiarity with spectrum management and RF link tuning (2.4/5.8 GHz, sub-GHz, telemetry).
• Field maintenance experience: airframe repairs, ESC/motor swaps, soldering, firmware flashing.
• Sensor experience: EO/IR gimbals, mapping payloads, LiDAR, or thermal imaging.
• Experience on named platforms common in Group 1–2 (e.g., DJI, Skydio, Teledyne FLIR, Ascent/Parrot, Auterion/PX4-based, custom builds).

Work Conditions

• Field-based with extensive travel; deployments may last 3–6 months.
• Irregular hours, weekend/holiday work possible based on mission schedule.
• Outdoor environments including remote sites; PPE and safety protocols provided.

Location

Field deployments across the U.S. (and potentially OCONUS). Home-base flexible; proximity to a major airport preferred.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary with field differential and per diem during travel.
• Travel, lodging, and mission-related expenses covered per company policy.
• Benefits package (health, dental, vision, 401(k)) and paid time off.

Security and Compliance

• Ability to pass background check and drug screening.
• Eligibility to work in the United States; ability to obtain site- or program-specific clearances as required.